The General Practice Podcast

This week, Dr. Debbie Hipps, a pioneering GP and primary care lead, joins Ben to explore how genomic medicine is transforming general practice. From enhancing risk assessments, family history evaluations, and cancer treatments to driving the NHS's shift from reactive to preventative care, Debbie highlights the urgent need for GPs and pharmacists to upskill in this fast-evolving field. We discuss practical tools like the Genomics Education Programme, real-world examples such as managing Lynch syndrome, and the broader challenges of integrating genomics into primary care, while looking ahead to a future of more precise, personalised treatments. Introduction (00:10) Genomic medicine (01:43)  Genomics in the 10 year plan (02:28)  How is genomic medicine being used in general practice now? (03:21) What makes something genomic medicine? (07:02) What genetic tests are available for patients? (07:53) Examples of practices who regularly use the testing.. (11:45) The near future.. (13:10) Staying up to date.. (16:13)  Services across the UK.. (17:19)  Resources (19:01)  Can it make the shift from treatment to prevention.. (19:31)  Access the RCGP Genomic Toolkit and Curriculum Guidance here. Access the Genomics Education Programme: Genomics in Primary Care here. Access the Genetic Test Ordering in Primary Care Resources here. Access the Genomic notes for clinicians here. Visit the Gateway C Course: The role of Genomics in Primary Care here. Visit the Futurelearn: the Future of Genetics in Medicine Online Course here. Download the Genomics information on an App here (Please note - only currently available for SE, NThames and East regions) North Thames GMSA Educational Resources can be accessed here. eLearning for Health Genomics in Healthcare is found here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Griffiths and Dr. Bryony Kendall open up about one of the most sensitive challenges in general practice, supporting families through the loss of a child. They share the journey of creating a new framework for GPs, co-produced with bereaved parents and the Alder Centre, to help doctors provide compassionate and consistent care. The discussion highlights why child bereavement is often avoided in society, and how GPs can play a vital role in offering empathy, continuity, and support at such difficult times. They also explore the national child bereavement support document, its UK-wide relevance, and the importance of preparedness in general practice. They emphasise the privilege and responsibility of walking alongside grieving families, and the lessons this work brings to healthcare. A powerful and practical conversation for all healthcare providers seeking to offer comfort when it's needed most. Introduction (00:09) When a Child Dies Framework (00:48) Lack of support available.. (02:47)  Discussions with practices (06:36)  Three main areas (07:35)   Tailoring the approach (12:24)  Reactions to the framework so far.. (18:49) Where to access the document (21:40) Next steps.. (22:14)  When a Child Dies: An NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Framework can be found here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back podcast regulars Claire Houston & Robyn Clark to discuss the financial challenges currently facing general practice. Together they highlight how inadequate core contract funding and rising inflation are leaving practices unable to cover the real costs of staffing and operations. They also examine the upcoming October contract changes, considering how these may heighten patient expectations around appointments and access, while creating practical challenges for practices working across both digital and analogue systems. Finally, they reflect on the uncertainty surrounding the future of general practice, stressing the importance of safe staffing levels, staff wellbeing, and the urgent need for honest conversations with government about funding and expectations to secure the sustainability of primary care. Introduction (00:09)  Practice Index (00:43) changes to the contract since it was first agreed.. (01:21) Funding.. (05:47)  Have take home profits gone up in practice? (07:42) Uncertainty for practice, uncertainty for staff and insufficient funding.. (09:03) Increase in patient expectations (13:37)  What's different from what was available on the 1st of April? (15:17)  Do you think there's a chance the wording will get changed (18:41)  What's your advice? (23:00) The new contract.. (25:21)  To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

What if general practice could seamlessly connect with secondary care? In this episode, Ben speaks with Dr. Charlie Andrews, a GP at Somerset's Summer Valley Medical Group and a leading voice in gastroenterology. Charlie shares his journey and the inspiration behind pioneering specialised roles for GPs. He discusses his innovative training programme, supported by NHS England and the Southwest Endoscopy Training Academy, which empowers GPs to expand into areas like inflammatory bowel disease and endoscopy while collaborating with hospital specialists. Charlie also explores the challenges of recruiting and funding GPs for extended roles and explains the practical implementation guide that ensures smooth transitions and proper supervision. Join us for an insightful conversation about how collaboration, innovation, and passion are reshaping patient care, bridging the gap between primary and secondary care, and opening exciting new pathways for GPs across the UK. Introduction (0:09) Does anyone else offer the same training programme? (03:54) Joint working between General Practice & Secondary care.. (04:21)  A two way learning.. (06:45)  Referral and utilisation rates (07:23) Making it better for patients (08:01) The 10 year plan (08:46)  The training programme (10:17)  The placements (12:44) Funding (14:14)  Learnings so far.. (15:53)  Find out more.. (17:54) What does gastroenterology look like in 10 years time (20:17)  Getting in touch (22:28) Access the GPwER framework document here.  The GPwER course brochure can be found here. The training programme evaluation can be found here. Listen to Charlies educational podcast that he runs for the PCSG for primary care clinicians here. Contact Charlie directly via email here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this episode, Ben explores the NHS's 10 year plan through the lens of general practice funding. Joined by finance expert Andy Pow, they unpack the major shifts proposed in the plan, including resource movement from acute care to community services and the ambitious productivity expectations placed on general practice. Andy shares his insights on the feasibility of these changes and the implications of emerging GP contracts, such as single and multi-neighborhood provider models, which could fundamentally reshape funding and delivery structures. The discussion also touches on governance challenges, potential cultural friction, and the risk of small practices being sidelined by larger entities. This episode offers a deep dive into how general practice must evolve to remain central in a shifting healthcare landscape. Introduction (0:08) The 10 year plan (00:50) No new cash.. (01:52)  Do you think that is an opportunity for general practice? (02:30) A move away from funding for general practice being primarily via the core contract? (03:51)  PCN DES (05:17) Where is the money to go into the core general practice contract? (06:12) The two new contracts.. (07:53)  Can PCNs take on the contracts?? (09:23)   ICBs are being encouraged to get a range of potential providers for these contracts.. (11:18) What are you signing up for?. (12:40) Full circle.. (14:25) How important is it that General Practice holds these contracts? (15:50) How do we be proactive and not act like victims to all of this? (17:24) A risk or an opportunity for General Practice? (19:18) What's your advice? (21:08) Getting in touch.. (22:34)  Visit the Pow and Thomas website here. To find Andy Pow on socials, visit his X profile here, Bluesky here & Linkedin here. To find Power and Thomas on socials, visit their X profile here, Bluesky here & Linkedin here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

What does the future hold for general practice in our communities? In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back Adrian Down & Ceri Chaplin to unpack the NHS's ambitious 10 year plan to shift care from hospitals into local settings, with a focus on digital transformation and preventative strategies. With a blend of optimism and realism, Adrian and Ceri explore what these changes mean for small, independent practices, particularly in rural areas, sharing contrasting experiences and hopes for the neighbourhood health service model. They delve into the feasibility of single and multi-neighbourhood provider contracts, the evolving role of PCNs, and the future of the partnership model. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the need for local voices in shaping national implementation, using examples from regions like Hereford to demonstrate how innovation can work hand in hand with the core values of general practice. Introduction (00:09)  Are you excited about the vision? (01:45) Are neighbourhoods a threat? (03:50) What is a neighbourhood? (07:01)  General Practice has a voice.. (08:33)  The importance of having a good structure.. (10:54)  Is it realistic? (12:33) New contracts (17:13) Concerns.. (18:48) The Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (21:40)  To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. Access the 'Change Management Masterclass' here. Visit the 'An Introduction to Managing Change' class here. Browse all the bespoke courses for GP practice staff here.  For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this episode, healthcare leaders Katie Bramall-Stainer & Alice Benton unpack the newly published 10-year NHS plan, highlighting the vital yet often overlooked role of practicing professionals in shaping effective policy. They explore the transformative potential of tools like the NHS app and AI, the real world challenges facing GPs, and the shifting balance of resources from hospitals to community care. With a strong focus on funding transparency, integration, and the importance of GP voices in decision making, this conversation is a timely call for healthcare professionals to stay engaged, informed, and proactive in shaping the future of general practice. Introduction (0:08) The 10 year plan (00:39) The front door of the NHS (03:39) The core contract (12:38)  The heart of the system (15:19)  The direction of travel (18:49)  What's your advice? (22:23)  For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this solo episode, Ben examines the newly published 10-Year NHS Plan, Fit for the Future, and its implications for general practice as the NHS shifts towards a neighbourhood health service model. He discusses how digital platforms like the NHS app are reshaping patient access, moving general practice away from its traditional front-door role. The episode highlights opportunities for growth and investment, the organisational changes needed to realise them, and the risks to established models of care. Ben also explores how neighbourhood services could reduce reliance on hospitals and how new contracts may drive larger-scale operations. Future episodes will feature experts to delve even deeper into these changes.. The 10 year plan (0:09) Major changes to the way the NHS operates (02:06) The new role for General Practice.. (04:24) Segmented neighbourhood populations (05:19) What does it actually mean by a neighbourhood? (06:24) Analogue to digital.. (07:20) General Practice will be a part of neighbourhood health (08:53) Two new contracts for General Practice (10:46) So what about money? (14:00) Delivery over the next 3 to 4 years (14:35) What to think about now? (15:44) Finally.. (16:51) For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

Join us this week as we explore the transformative journey of Pure Unity Health with our insightful guests, Vicky Maskill and Adam Davies. Discover how Pure Unity Health has grown into a leading provider of first contact physiotherapy services across the UK. Vicky and Adam share their experiences of delivering high quality services and maintaining robust data reporting, while highlighting the importance of building strong relationships with PCNs. The conversation also explores their innovative health coaching initiatives, including the integration of pain cafes and community based coaching through PCNs. Plus, they discuss new QOF targets around cardiovascular disease, and the vital role of behaviour change and lifestyle coaching in improving patient care and supporting NHS preventative strategies. Introduction (00:09)  Pure Unity Health (00:59) What have you learnt from working with PCNs? (02:09) How can you supply physiotherapists when PCNs are struggling to recruit themselves? (04:38) Third party providers (06:25) How it works in practice.. (12:33)  Locally owned.. (14:30)  Helping PCNs and practices with new QOF targets (17:58) Getting in touch.. (20:33) Visit the Pure Unity Health website here. Contact Vicky directly here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back Robyn Clark and introduce new guest Tracey Clarke to discuss the vital role of reception teams in general practice. They explore efforts to better support these teams, including the launch of a new campaign video, and highlight the importance of safeguarding staff wellbeing. The episode calls for action against patient aggression, the need to stand up for colleagues, and greater recognition of the crucial part receptionists play in patient care. It also touches on training opportunities, such as e-learning and masterclasses, to help reception staff thrive and innovate. Useful resources, including Zero Tolerance policies, Dealing with Abusive Patients policies, and more, can be found in the Practice Index Hub. Introduction (00:08)  What has IGPM been up to? (00:51) Influencing the 10 year plan.. (03:30) The new campaign (05:32)  80% of receptionists suffer abuse every day.. (08:49)  Where should the support come from? (11:18)  Zero tolerance (14:53)  How has the receptionist role changed? (16:36) Response to the new campaign (19:48)  How do practices get involved? (23:15)  Visit the Practice Index hub here. View Practice Index's bespoke, engaging courses here. Access the 'Receptionists in General Practice Masterclass' here, or the 'Learning Package' here. To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

With Pride Month just around the corner, join us for an insightful discussion with Alex Matheson, Director of Inclusion at the LGBT Foundation, as we explore the vital work being done to improve healthcare for LGBTQ+ communities. Alex shares their expertise on the comprehensive services offered by the foundation, including talking therapies, addiction recovery, and mental health support. Discover the origins and impact of the Pride in Practice program, a key initiative addressing health inequalities and barriers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in accessing healthcare. Alex highlights the importance of understanding the unique needs of LGBTQ+ people and how systemic gaps in education contribute to misinformation and delayed healthcare access, ultimately affecting treatment outcomes. This conversation is an invitation to healthcare practices to engage with these initiatives and work towards more equitable healthcare for all. Introduction (00:09)  Funding.. (01:28) Are your services national? (02:02)  Pride in Practice (02:20)  Barriers the community experience (03:43)  General practice has become an important role.. (07:29)  Are staff also experiencing challenges? (08:55) Do figures break down to General Practice? (10:38) More about Pride in Practice.. (11:38) Common changes (15:06)  Monitoring the impact.. (17:45)  Which practices need 'Pride in Practice' (20:15)  How to get involved/Getting in touch.. (22:30)  Visit the LGBT Foundation website here, or contact Alex directly via email here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

This episode features Dr Rachel Morris discussing the impact of stress and burnout on GP partners and PCN Clinical Directors, with a focus on how maintaining job control can help reduce pressure. It also introduces a communication model rooted in empathy, curiosity, and the principle of "highest intent," offering strategies for improving workplace relationships. The importance of trust-building and direct, face-to-face communication is explored as a way to bridge gaps between practices and strengthen collaboration, drawing on Stephen Covey's principles to turn misunderstanding into teamwork. Join us as we explore how fostering these personal connections can help overcome common challenges, transforming tension into teamwork. Introduction (00:09)  The stress that leaders are facing.. (00:37) What can we control? (01:38)  Controlling leaders (03:28)  Avoiding difficult conversations (05:29) Advice for having difficult conversations (07:28) When is a problem too large to tackle? (18:34) Listening & understanding (21:45) Maintaining relationships within PCNs (24:42)  How & where to hear more from Rachel (28:26)  The Lead Generator for HiFIVE model handout can be found here. To attend 'Work Well Live: Prevent Burnout, Boost Retention and Protect Your Time and Energy - A New Approach' click here. The replay of 'FrogFest Virtual 2024 - This Time it's Awkward Recording' can be found here. Website - https://youarenotafrog.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drrachelmorris/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-morris/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DrRachelMorris YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@youarenotafrog Our FREE Am I Stressed, Overwhelmed or Burnt Out Toolkit -  https://www.shapestoolkit.com/stressed-overwhelmed-burnout-toolkit For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back Claire Houston and Ceri Chaplin to explore the major changes to the Quality and Outcomes Framework for the 2025/26 contract, and what they mean for general practice. The episode dives into the removal of income protected indicators and the Quality Improvement domain, marking a shift back to an outcomes driven framework. This change could bring increased financial pressure, making strategic budgeting and achievement planning more important than ever. Beyond QOF, they also discuss the wider challenge of promoting preventative care, with a focus on childhood immunisation targets and cardiovascular disease management. With public trust in vaccinations still recovering post-pandemic, practices will need to innovate to meet targets and boost patient engagement. Tune in for a practical and insightful look at how these updates could reshape the future of general practice. Introduction (00:08)  The main changes to QOF (00:36) Stepping back.. (01:49)  Reducing the admin for practices (02:20) Budgeting.. (03:10)  The risk for practices (04:30)  Are the targets achievable? (06:58)  Advice to practices (09:28)  Do PCNs have a role in this? (12:45)  Retirement of the quality improvement domain (17:28) The future for QOF (20:41)  A more local focus.. (22:33)  Where to find support.. (25:03)  Book your QOF achievement session below; QOF Changes 2025/26 (Tuesday 13th May) QOF Changes 2025/26 (Tuesday 20th May) To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

In this episode we welcome back Pete Woodward, from Cheadle Medical Practice. Over the past year, Pete has experienced a whirlwind of success, including winning the Practice Manager of the Year Award and stepping into the role of managing partner. He shares insights into the evolution of their innovative triage, The Human Touch, which continues to reduce call wait times and enhance patient satisfaction despite seasonal challenges. Pete's commitment to minor adjustments rather than sweeping changes has been pivotal in maintaining momentum and avoiding change fatigue, ensuring a seamless service delivery. Pete & Ben also explore the strategic side of managing a medical practice, focusing on financial planning. Finally, Pete shares the importance of communication and collaboration in healthcare management. Tune in to hear Pete's valuable experiences and insights as he continues to champion innovation and efficiency in healthcare. Introduction (00:08)  The Human Touch (01:16) How are the results looking now? (02:35)  Is winter affecting the results? (03:53) Updates to the system.. (04:36) Scaling up.. (05:34) Have the same results been achieved across other practices? (06:05)  Funding & finances (06:59)  Budgeting for the year (10:13)  Taking action sooner.. (11:10)  How is this managed in the practice? (12:55) Making a difference (15:03) Funding via PCNs (16:07)  Financial challenges within practices (17:45)  Financial benefits to be gained from scale (18:56) Getting in touch (23:25)  Listen to Pete's previous episode, The Human Touch, here. To contact Pete directly, please contact him by email here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.

Is the Future of General Practice Finally Looking Brighter? In this week's episode, brought to you in partnership with Practice Index, we welcome back Claire Houston, Robyn Clark, and James Gransby to discuss the newly agreed contract for general practice. After three years of imposed terms, the promise of an additional £889 million in funding offers a glimmer of hope. However, the episode delves into the reality that much of this funding may simply offset rising staffing costs and increased national insurance contributions, providing little genuine financial relief for GP partners. We explore the complexities and uncertainties these changes bring, emphasising the importance of clear contract planning to secure financial stability and better outcomes for both practices and patients. Introduction (00:08) An agreed contract (01:22)  Are practices feeling better? (02:28) Is it helping the underlying profitability? (06:59) The changes & impact for ARRS? (11:10)  More money for ARRS? (12:17)  What's your take on the impact? (12:35) Keeping the online consultation tool on.. (15:56) The GPC.. (18:40) NHS England is going to be abolished (20:12) Final thoughts.. (23:28)  To visit the Practice Index website, click here or contact James Dillon here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.